2-Day Wonchi Lake and Menagesha Forest Tour from Addis Ababa

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Hike and horseback ride at Wonchi Lake
• 02 Explore the island monastery of Cherkos and the hot springs
• 03 Experience Menagesha National Forest's wildlife
• 04 Discover endemic birds in their natural habitat

Embark on a 2-day wildlife adventure from Addis Ababa to Wonchi Lake and Menagesha National Forest. Enjoy hiking and horseback riding at Wonchi Lake, then take a boat ride to visit the island monastery of Cherkos and the hot springs. Continue into the lush green forest of Menagesha for hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching, with chances to spot colobus monkeys, endemic Menelik's bushbuck, the Ethiopian oriole, and the Abyssinian woodpecker.

Take a boat ride on the lake to visit the island monastery of Cherkos and the hot springs.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 2 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Addis Ababa, Giyon

Languages English, French

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Wonchi Lake Hiking, Boating, and Monastery Visit

• Drive from Addis Ababa via Woliso to Wonchi Lake.
• Set out early in the morning for the drive to Lake Wonchi.
• Enjoy hiking and horseback riding.
• Take a boat ride on the lake to visit the island monastery of Cherkos and the hot springs.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch on the shore of the lake. Later, drive back to Addis Ababa. Overnight at Damat Hotel.

2

Day 02

Menagesha Forest Hike and Wildlife Watching

• Drive to Menagesha National Forest for a hike.
• Enjoy watching wildlife such as the colobus monkey and the endemic Menelik's bushbuck.
• Go birdwatching for the endemic Ethiopian oriole and Abyssinian woodpecker.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch in the lush green forest.

Dinner and overnight in Addis Ababa, or prepare for your departure.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Non-alcoholic soft drinks and two litres of bottled water per person per day.

• Qualified English-speaking guide.
• Transportation (A/C 15-seat latest Toyota minibus or Land Cruiser with driver, fuel, and comprehensive insurance coverage).
• Scout and entrance fee, and porters' fees at airports and hotels.
• 15% government taxes.

What's Not Included

• All alcoholic drinks
• Accommodation with any meals
• Use of services beyond the itinerary
• International flight

What to bring

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light jacket or sweater (mornings can be cool)
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
• Camera for capturing historical sites
• Water bottle to stay hydrated
• Small backpack for essentials
• Cash for souvenirs or entrance fees (if needed)
• Personal ID or passport

Know before you go

• Altitude: Addis Ababa and surrounding sites are at high elevations; pace yourself and stay hydrated.
• Weather: The climate is mild, but mornings and evenings can be cool-dress in layers.
• Walking: Some sites require moderate walking on uneven terrain; wear comfortable shoes.
• Cultural etiquette: Respect local customs, especially at religious sites-modest clothing is recommended.
• Cash & payments: Some places may not accept credit cards, so carry small cash for entrance fees or souvenirs.
• Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos of locals or religious sites.
• Health & safety: Bring any personal medications and be mindful of hygiene when eating street food.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Tour start

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.